Blockchain startup Figure is making waves in the financial industry, with reports revealing its collaboration with major institutions such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and Jeffries on a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) of its lending arm. While Figure had previously faced resistance from banks in adopting blockchain technology, it has now successfully demonstrated the savings and efficiency that blockchain brings to the lending process.
Figure, known for its public Provenance blockchain, offers a wide range of institutional solutions. Its blockchain-based mortgage registry played a crucial role in its April asset-backed security (ABS) issuance, which involved the same three institutions mentioned above. The startup also holds an ATS (Alternative Trading System) license, allowing it to trade funds, equity, and other securities. Collaborating with asset manager Apollo Global and JP Morgan, Figure is actively working on tokenization solutions, solidifying its position as a technology provider for the USDF Consortium’s tokenized deposits.
However, Figure’s lending arm is the highlight of its operations. With a focus on retail real estate financing, Figure has provided a staggering $8 billion in Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) thus far. While the company’s ultimate goal is to become an infrastructure provider, its lending business serves as a means to showcase the advantages of blockchain technology. By creating their own lending business, Figure was able to manifest significant savings that had previously been unattainable through traditional banking systems.
Figure’s CEO, Mike Cagney, initially faced skepticism from banks when he proposed utilizing blockchain technology in lending processes. However, with banks now embracing blockchain, Cagney is contemplating an IPO and the possibility of appointing new leadership for the listed firm. The company’s recent layoffs and the abandonment of its plan to acquire a bank further demonstrate its dedication to refining its business strategy.
As Figure continues to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving financial landscape, its focus on asset management for digital assets remains a key area of success and growth. With its blockchain expertise and partnership with industry titans, Figure is poised to revolutionize lending and shape the future of decentralized finance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is blockchain technology?
Blockchain technology is a decentralized and transparent digital ledger that records data in a series of interconnected blocks. Each block contains a unique cryptographic hash that ensures the integrity and security of the information stored within the chain. -
What is an Initial Public Offering (IPO)?
An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process by which a private company offers its shares to the public for the first time, enabling individuals to become shareholders in the company. -
What is an Asset-Backed Security (ABS)?
An Asset-Backed Security (ABS) is a financial instrument that represents an ownership interest in a pool of underlying assets, such as loans or mortgages. ABSs enable investors to gain exposure to these assets, which generate cash flows over time. -
What is a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)?
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow money against the equity they have built in their property. HELOCs provide borrowers with a flexible line of credit that can be used for various purposes. -
What is an Alternative Trading System (ATS) license?
An Alternative Trading System (ATS) license allows a company to operate an electronic marketplace for trading securities that are not listed on traditional stock exchanges. ATSs provide an alternative venue for investors to buy and sell securities.